Our Favourite Toners, From Very Cheap To Very Expensive

Toners are beyond important for clean, brilliant skin, but there's no need to break the bank and live off water and bread to afford them. (Psst, our current favourite costs less than $25!)

by Natalyn Chan | June 5, 2018

When it comes to skincare, toners have a little bit of a bad rep. They don’t appear to do very much – even though they actually do – and the good ones can set you back quite a bit. Some of them have alcohol, which is bad news for the skin in general, sensitive or otherwise. Unlike moisturisers or serums, quite a bit is required with each use, so you go through a bottle in no time. That sets you back even more. Should you then skip it altogether?

Well, the obvious answer is no. A toner is crucial in a skincare routine. How should you go about the aforementioned hassles then? Truth is, the contrast between the more basic ones and the pricier ones isn’t the biggest. If you’re not fussy, opt for a cheaper one. But, if you’re someone who wants much, much more out of your toners, say, extra moisturising benefits and antioxidants, and you’ve got the ke-chings for it, do it. Below, seven of our favourite toners ever at every budget.

Pixi Glow Tonic

Although this is the cheapest out of our favourites, the Pixi Glow Tonic isn’t one to be judged by its price. Suitable for most skin types, this alcohol-free formula gently exfoliates the skin and is infused with ginseng and fructose for that healthy glow.

Susanne Kaufmann Tonic Clarifying

For a more clarifying toner, this is one that will invigorate the skin and gently cleanses without breaking the bank. It is also enriched with an antibacterial plant alcohol that would help combination skin and oily or acne prone skin prevent those pesky pimples from emerging.

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Toner

Enriched with natural oils and vitamin E, the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Toner will provide moisture to the skin, cleanse the surface and refine skin texture. It’s also pH-balanced, and is great for all skin types. If you’re looking for a no-fuss, everyday toner, this could be the one for you. (If you prefer something more botanical, consider their Calendula Herbal Extract Toner.)

REN Clarifying Toning Lotion

If you have troubled skin and need that saving grace, the REN Toning Lotion will exfoliate and remove excess oil without stripping the skin of moisture. The antimicrobial and antibacterial benefits will help stop recurring breakouts, and is made from all-natural ingredients like lemon, pineapple and grape that also gives it a fresh, natural scent.

Anne Semonin Marine Toner

For the oily-skin types that face a the troubles of excess sebum, try this toner that’s mattifying and clarifying. The marine in the name refers to the sea-sourced materials and trace elements that strengthens, protects and moisturises. The formula is also infused with Rubens Extracts and Rose Water to calm irritation.

Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner

Infused with real rose petals for glowing skin and a refreshing fragrance, this toner will gently cleanse and soften the skin with its hydrating formula. This leaves the skin prepped – and smelling extra good – and ready for a better absorption of the skincare routine that follows.

Tata Harper Hydrating Floral Essence Moisturising Toner

Ah, the priciest of this lot. Is it really that special, one may ask? This toner is infused with floral essences and the moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid, along with gotu kola extract that improves skin tone and elasticity. But that’s not all, it’s also got Vitamin C in the mix, that’s an antioxidant that fights against pollution. All in one convenient bottle.